“UoPeople Gave Me the Chance to Develop Myself in Ways That Wouldn’t Have Been Possible Otherwise,” Says Computer Science Student, Santiago H.

Based in Venezuela, Santiago H. is pursuing his bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at University of the People while balancing his studies with work and everyday life. He already holds an associate degree in the same field and continues building his path in technology with determination and resilience.

As the son of two engineers, Santiago grew up in a home where education was highly valued. From an early age, his parents instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and responsibility that shaped how he approached learning and life. “They made education a top priority for me. I saw firsthand how it changed their lives and helped them climb the socioeconomic ladder,” he shares.

Santiago describes his childhood as “quite happy,” even though it unfolded during a period of increasing challenges in Venezuela. Growing up in the early 2000s meant witnessing the country’s social and economic difficulties intensify over time. At the same time, his upbringing and strong family values provided a steady foundation.

Like many young people navigating challenging environments, Santiago faced several obstacles during his teenage years. Frequent illnesses, financial strain within the family, and the emotional challenges of adolescence all tested his resilience. “I also struggled with feelings of rejection and the pressure to fit in in high school. But in retrospect, I see those experiences as formative. They played a huge role in building my resilience and shaping my character,” he says.

According to him, discovering University of the People changed the trajectory of his academic journey. “UoPeople allowed me to access an affordable world-class education and gave me the chance to develop myself in ways that would not have been possible for me otherwise. This is why I strongly advocate for this pioneering model that has changed my life. I strongly recommend UoPeople to everyone.”

Building a career in Venezuela requires adaptability and persistence. Alongside his studies, Santiago works as a junior web developer, gaining valuable experience in the tech industry. Daily life in his modest town comes with ongoing challenges, including water shortages, power outages, and a high cost of living.

“Forging a career in Venezuela demands constant adaptability in the face of economic unpredictability. Balancing professional responsibilities with academic commitments can be quite challenging as well, but I see it as an important step toward my future goals,” he says.

Santiago’s ambitions extend far beyond earning his degree. He is already thinking about the kinds of technologies he wants to create and the impact he hopes to have in his field.

“Looking ahead, I want to build my own products. I’m currently planning a SaaS platform focused on education and AI, combining my passion for technology with a desire to expand access to learning. Whether it’s for everyday use or corporate systems, I’m passionate about building tech solutions that help people,” he explains.

He also hopes to continue learning through certifications and projects that expand educational opportunities for others. Outside of coding and coursework, Santiago enjoys staying active and creative. Music and jogging help him recharge. “Honestly, I even treat programming as a hobby, not just work or study,” he adds.

However, when he takes a break from the screen, he gravitates toward quieter interests. Santiago enjoys reading about psychology and history—subjects that deepen his understanding of people and the world. Those peaceful moments are often shared with a special companion. “My cat, Sushi, is the perfect, low-stress companion for a busy student like me,” he laughs.

As a university, we are impressed by Santiago’s focus, resilience, and positive spirit, and wish him the very best in the future.